Yes, it is that time of the month again. Here’s to another prominent director and pioneer in the film industry, George Lucas. It is very unlikely that you’ve never heard of this man, unless of course you’ve been trapped in an underground bunker for the past 5 decades. The entire Star Wars franchise, which changed the film game in 1977 upon its introduction, was the brainchild of Lucas. Additionally, he is credited with the creation of the Indiana Jones franchise, as well as various movies such as the cult classic American Graffiti.
Standing at just about 5 foot 6, Lucas has never let his stature dictate his accomplishments. On top of his outstanding film creations, he also managed to found several companies including Lucasfilm (for television and production), LucasArts (for video game licensing, also a subsidiary of Lucasfilm), Industrial Light and Magic (his visual effects company), and THX (audio and visual engineering company).
Nearly 50 years after its conception, the Star Wars brand continues to live on. Even after the acquisition of Lucasfilm by Disney in 2012, Star Wars spinoffs such as The Mandolorian, Andor, or Obi-Wan Kenobi, continue to dominate the television/streaming space. Then of course comes all of the video games, merchandise, and comics that also fall under this umbrella. Star Wars influenced pop culture in the 21st century and that’s a fact. I think it is safe to say that Lucas has created a legacy that will be sure to outlive him.
Setting aside all of his accomplishments, George Lucas has got to be one of my favorite short kings of all time. I remember being a huge Star Wars nerd in second grade, to the point where I actually wrote a letter to Lucasfilm discussing my admiration for the movies. Lucas didn’t write to me personally, but his secretary did. The fact that the secretary took the time to read my letter, humor it, and respond to me still meant a lot. I ended up bringing that letter to second grade show and tell, and yes lots of my fellow classmates were excited for me.
Did I also mention George Lucas was born and raised in Modesto? Before enrolling in USC Film School, he even went to Modesto Junior College for a bit. Bonus points for him for representing the Central Valley. Gotta love this guy.
God bless,
Producer Reese